A few months ago, I picked up the HF quick hitch, on sale for $69, and with the 20% off coupon, it came to a whopping $57. After playing with it and pondering implement modifications, it was apparent that the top link adapter would require far less work than changing my implements. So I ordered that. Also picked up some bushing adapters from Northern Tool.

The last few days, I finally got around to setting everything up and testing with my attachments. Made a couple of modifications. I did the typical grind to allow the top link adapter to swing over the top of the top attach point, so it can stay in place when using the hook. I swapped the HF bolts for 1/2" pins, so the hook can be removed easily when not needed. Also drilled an additional hole in the hook, between the two existing holes, to allow it to sit one hole lower in the bracket, while still using two pins.

With my box blade (Lowery Manufacturing standard 5') and rotary cutter (Lowery Manufacturing Clipper 400), both set up with adapter bushings, attachment is quick and easy. In fact, I even managed to attach the box blade without leaving the seat of the tractor (Yanmar 2210). My dirt scoop is a Leinbach 30" model, and the top attach point is completely fubar for a quick hitch. What I did find could do was remove the hook from the quick hitch and lift the dirt scoop slightly via the bottom pins, and then slide the hook in place and pin it to the quick hitch. Ideal? No. But still about five times faster than a manual hook up without the quick hitch.

But the real revelation for me was the value of the hook for dragging logs. I was going to buy a boom pole to drag logs (and probably still will, for other reasons), but I find the hook of the HF quick hitch works great for this. I used a heavy duty tow strap, because I dont have the right chains. Can anybody recommend an appropriate chain setup for this application?

Only downside to this whole process is now I need some suitcase weights up front. Did some scoop and box blade work late this afternoon, and with the attachment a few inches further back, the steering is getting a bit too light for my comfort.

Be careful with the hairpin clips that you have on the pins that secure the hook. My Land Pride quick hitch used a similar method with some clevis pins. During rehearsal everything worked fine but the first time I plowed snow with the rear blade I lost one of the pins. I had to install a bolt and nut so I could keep working. If any of your implements touches the open end of those hairpin clips they will immediately eject. One of the other forum members suggested using Cotter Rings. They are a bit slower to remove and replace but they won't fly off.

12-30-2012, 04:42 PM

Kioti Tom

Re: Another Harbor Freight quick hitch success story

CAUTION !!! Do not use the hook for dragging anything. If the log got stuck on a stump it would flip the tractor
over on its back in a heartbeat. Never attach someing higher than the axle unless the lift arms are involved ...The way Ferguson designed the system was when a pull on the lift arms was there, it would make the front of the tractor
stay down. Many have been injured or even killed by pulling from only above the axle. even a quick hitch could act
as a fulcrum if what ever being pulled is not attached also to the lift arms also.

12-30-2012, 05:16 PM

newt92

Re: Another Harbor Freight quick hitch success story

I use the pins just like yours, except I push the clips all the way through so the pin is in the ring part of the clip. Also, the clips do get beatin up from implements..

I agree on the pulling from the top link. At least lower the 3pt all the way down if you must.

12-30-2012, 09:08 PM

rbstern

Re: Another Harbor Freight quick hitch success story

Good advice on pulling with the top link. I'll come up with a safer method.

12-30-2012, 10:15 PM

NHmitch

Re: Another Harbor Freight quick hitch success story

An easy fix would be to use a draw bar attacked to the quick hitch. They sell a hook that you can attach a chain or strap to and then around the log, and you will keep your center of gravity lower. I would also be worried about the log pulling forward if it was to hang up, and damaging your PTO. They sell both for about $35 combined at Tractor Supply, and even less on harbor freight. Unfortunately both companies outsource to china for their products.

When I made pins to replace the bolts in my QH, I cut them to the width of the QH top link frame and put the pins inside the frame, next to the hook. I had to grind the hook a little for clearance, but it allows the pins to "hide" inside the frame so they are secure and it also gives me the clearance I need to get the hook inside my box blade top pin framework.